ST-segment depression in aVR as a predictor of culprit artery and infarct size in acute inferior wall ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND: ST-segment depression in lead aVR in acute inferior wall ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has recently been suggested as a predictor of left circumflex (LCx) artery involvement. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical significance of aVR depression during inferior wall STEMI.

METHODS: This study included 106 consecutive patients who presented with inferior wall STEMI and underwent urgent coronary angiogram. Clinical and angiographic findings were compared between patients with and without aVR depression > or = 0.1 mV.

RESULTS: The sensitivity and specificity of aVR depression as a predictor of LCx infarction were 53% and 86%, respectively. In patients with right coronary artery infarction, aVR depression was associated with increased cardiac enzymes and the involvement of a large posterolateral branch, which may explain the larger infarction.

CONCLUSIONS: ST-segment depression in lead aVR in inferior wall STEMI predicts LCx infarction or larger RCA infarction involving a large posterolateral branch.